more»User Review: Osprey Atmos 65
Ron Meservey "R.B" (Guest)
Rating: 
Design: top-loading internal
Max. Load Carried: about 35 lbs.
Height of Owner: 5' 11"
Price Paid: about $200 at EMS sale
After section-hiking the AT from Springer Mt., GA to Rangeley, ME with a Kelty Flight 4500, I bought the Osprey for my final 220-mile section hike to Katahdin.
The Osprey was a great improvement in comfort and convenience. Though theoretically 500 cubic inches smaller that the Kelty, the Osprey held all my gear with a bit of volume to spare. Given the unexpected heat of Maine in August, I greatly appreciated the mesh back panel, a welcome contrast to the coated nylon against my back with the Kelty.
The many pockets were handy once I figured them out, especially the sleeping bag pocket, which also held my sleeping pad. Unlike the Kelty, the Osprey didn't collapse into a formless lump when unpacked, and it seemed sturdy, though I can't rate its durability after so short a test.
Now that I've completed the AT, I look forward to hiking other trails for this pack.
As an addendum to this review, I have now lived with my Osprey Atmos 65 for a couple years and my enthusiasm has not waned after putting in a couple hundred miles of lugging it mostly on the Appalachian Trail. This past November I did another 40+ mile weekender; this one from the Pennsylvania/Maryland border (PenMar) to Harpers Ferry, WV. It was very comfortable for the entire trek, and I even hit my personal best when I went 18 1/2 miles the first day. It carries well, is very comfortable and well-constructed. My only complaint might be that I wish the shoulder straps had slightly thicker padding, but that's minor. Overall, an excellent backpack.
4 months ago
Where to Buy
$119.95 - $239.00
MSRP: $239.00
